Add Chinese name for my baby

Hi,


We would like to give our baby son a chinese name apart from his English name. I was told that I could go see a fortune teller to get a more in depth name (sign, time he was born etc etc) but I'm not sure that I want to go that far. I'm looking for someone who specializes or knows chinese characters to produce a name... Opinions would be great.

We're going through that process ourselves right now....and also prefer NOT to see a fortune teller. Must admit that we don't know much Chinese---hubby and I studied several years of Chinese in university. But thought I'd share a bit about factors to consider:


1. Some people opt for a transliteration of their English name (finding something that sounds like your English name). This can easily be done by doing an internet search or visiting Stanley Market---there are vendors who sell t-shirts/name chops. They can help you.


2. Some people prefer to find a Chinese name with the same meaning as the English name. It's possible to ask Chinese friends for help. You could also use an English/Chinese dictionary online--it's free and easy. Just do a google search.


3. You could also select a Chinese name with a good meaning that is unrelated to the English name.


4. We have been told that some Chinese characters are more "male" or "female" sounding, so do check with friends.


5. You might also want to consider that the name you select sounds good in Cantonese and Mandarin. (We were surprised when friends were making fun of some of the names we selected and told us that our kid would be made fun of at school...)


Hope this helps!

And hey, if you find someone that specializes in this, let me know!

chops are a good idea, I had to get my secretary to write out the chinese name of my daughter on a form

Thank you for your replies, very helpful. Does anyone out there know of someone?

please don;t go to fortune tellers. Sorry nothign against them but most of the characters they came up are so old fashioned and either have something to do being loaded / prosperous / ultra intelligent your entire life. There are so many beautiful chinese characters that have subtle yet deep meaning.


But sorry I don;t know anyone who knows anyone specialising in this. I recommend you ask any friends esp those from Mainland China as they are so great in their Mandarin. Do you think you can approach friendly-looking chinese say in coffee shops or even ask the librarian in central library or chinese university? hope I don't sound silly!

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